2011-12 High School Course Offerings - Durham Public Schools

Level IV: Modern World Languages Courses
Students learn to communicate in writing and in extended conversations on a variety of topics. As they become more proficient
in independent reading, they will be able to narrate, discuss, and support increasingly complex ideas and concepts. Short
stories, poetry, excerpts from various periods of literature, and current events are included. Students study the finer points of
grammar to aid oral and written communication along with a more in-depth study of the target culture(s) and their influence
throughout the world. Students develop the ability to interact in culturally appropriate ways in most social situations they will
encounter in the target culture(s).
AP: Modern World Languages Courses
Advanced Placement courses emphasize the use of language for active communication. Students develop language skills
(reading, writing, listening, and speaking) that can be used in various activities and disciplines rather than focusing on any
specific subject matter. Emphasis is placed on comprehension of the spoken and written target language in various contexts;
coherent and resourceful communication; and the organization and writing of compositions. Extensive course guidelines are
provided by the College Board, and teachers are required to maintain current AP authorization.
Modern World
Languages Instruction
Modern World Language Offerings
French I
Spanish I
German I
Prerequisites
None
Effective instruction in modern world
languages requires that teachers and
their students use the target language
as exclusively as possible.
French II
Spanish II
German II
Modern World Language I
Honors French III
Honors Spanish III
Honors German III
Modern World Language II
Students at all levels should be aware
that their teachers will speak the
target language about 90% of the time.
Honors French IV
Honors Spanish IV
Honors German IV
Modern World Language III
Honors French V
Honors Spanish V
Honors German V
Modern World Language IV
Teachers have many strategies to help
students adjust to having 90% of their
instruction given in the target language.
AP French
Language
AP Spanish
Language
AP German
Modern World Language IV
AP Spanish
Literature
Modern World Language IV
ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE COURSES
Latin I
Prerequisite: None
Latin I is an introduction to the study of the Latin language and
Greco-Roman culture. Students will learn basic functions of the
language, become familiar with some elements of its culture and
increase their understanding of English vocabulary and grammar.
Students will learn to read and understand adapted Latin texts.
Latin II
Prerequisite: Latin I
This course continues the study of the Latin language and Greco-
Roman culture. Through continued reading of adapted Latin
texts, students learn more complex grammar and syntax, gain a
greater understanding of the culture, and continue to gain insight
into English vocabulary and grammar.
Honors Latin III
Prerequisite: Latin II
This course focuses on advanced Latin grammar and introduces
students to Latin literature through authentic Latin texts.
Students also examine the interrelationships between Greco-
Roman cultures and their own culture and continue to gain
insight into English grammar and vocabulary.
Honors Latin IV
Prerequisite: Honors Latin III
A major focus of Latin IV is on reading authentic Latin texts
which includes a more in-depth study of grammar. Students will
study figures of speech; analyze what they read, write essays, and
study the influence of Greco-Roman culture throughout the
world.
DPS High School Course Guide 21